Wild turkeys trade woods for N Fla. neighborhoods

GAINESVILLE (AP) — Wild turkeys seem to be trading the woods for Gainesville neighborhoods, including the University of Florida campus.

Residents in and around the north Florida city are reporting more sightings of the birds usually stalked by hunters through woodland landscapes.

Tony Young of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission tells The Gainesville Sun that development has cut into the turkeys' habitat. The birds have adapted by pecking for food on roadsides and in yards.

Hunting restrictions also have boosted the birds' population. Hunters can only take two male turkeys in the fall and spring turkey seasons.

A conservation commission biologist warns homeowners to chase away wild turkeys that want to make homes in their yards. The birds can become territorial and chase people.